I didn't realize it was a faux stone pattern. There is nothing you can do to hide the grid pattern I am afraid...However, as it is recessed in a niche, I am inspired by your windchime pattern to think of adding eyelet hooks on the top and bottom that align with the vertical grids and uplight them from behind...This idea but with less vertical rods, and then uplit to give an effect like the second picture...

Sorry, but would you really take advice from someone that hasn't seen even off color photos of all the materials you've selected or knows the floor plan of your kitchen. If you post photos of the color and door style of the cabinets and cabinet moldings, a photo or the the name of the coutertop (there are many types and styles of black countertops), the finish and style of the appliances, the flooring you have selected, and the floor plan of your kitchen, maybe you could get sensible advice along of course with a lot of less valuable input. Asking blind strangers to direct you isn't sensible.

If you love the marble tile, go for it! You can always buy a stainless or white range hood backsplash like this http://www.wayfair.com/Air-King-Range-Hood-Back-Splash-SP2430-AXK1174.html to slip in place when you are cooking something really messy. I have a travertine backsplash and use a stainless sheet when frying. It works great and no worries about stains ruining the stone.

Hello Nitin, Thank you, for some excellent suggestions. I would however like to clarify my requirements/dilemma a bit more. 1) The built/carpet area for this 3 BHK is about 1600 sqft (Superbuilt 1960 sqft). What is the appropriate tile size I need to scout for? More specifically, will Ultima-range-like huge tile sizes (i.e. 120x180cm2, 120x120cm2) be suitable for this area? 2) While I am thinking of white (based) tiles, I am not necessarily looking for super-white tones (it gives a bit of a commercial look, and will need extreme maintenance). Something more practical, and with some depth/dimension is what I am trying to identify. Any suggestions? 3) Would you advice that I consider other white-toned flooring options like Terrazzo (Bharat Floorings is having a Cast-in-Situ option, but I am yet to go to their showroom)? Thanks and Regards.